Project Information: 

The project area includes the Klamath townsite, the Klamath River, and the riverside lands between them.

The project is led by the Yurok Tribe in partnership with Caltrans. Together, they are preparing a Project Initiation Document (PID), which is needed to compete for statewide funding. The PID focuses on improvements within the Caltrans’ right of way that support the Tribe’s Return to the River Plan. 

The town of Klamath is currently separated from the Klamath River—an important cultural place for the Yurok Tribe and local residents—by Highway 101. Because of this, people walking or biking must travel near fast‑moving traffic or take long, indirect routes. This makes it difficult for residents, families, and visitors to reach the river, boat ramps, and other nearby destinations.

The project began with community conversations about reconnecting the town with the riverfront. The Yurok Tribe continues to meet with residents, strengthen grant applications, and work closely with Caltrans. The planning schedule has been extended to allow more time for community input, Tribal Council discussions, and review of design ideas.

As planning continues, the project team will keep gathering feedback and exploring solutions that improve safety, meet local needs, and honor the importance of the Klamath River.

Purpose:

The purpose of this project is to improve and increase pedestrian and bicycle connectivity between the Klamath townsite and the boat ramps along the Klamath River while calming highway traffic to facilitate health of people, ecology, river, and economy as outlined in the Yurok Tribe's Return to the River Plan.

Need:

Highway 101 currently divides the Klamath townsite from the Klamath River and riverside lands, preventing direct non-motorized access without exposure to highway traffic or significant out of direction travel. Direct crossing points, vehicular controls, and speed reduction between the Klamath townsite and river are needed to facilitate the health and wellness of the community and traditional stewardship of the natural environment.

Partnerships: 

Yurok Tribe

Funding and Cost: 

Public outreach continues and will help strengthen grant applications for the Yurok Tribe to pursue funding.

State Highway Operations and Protection Program (SHOPP) funding may also be pursued for project elements within the State right of way. SHOPP is the State Highway System's "fix it first" program that funds repair and preservation, emergency repairs, safety improvements, and some highway operational improvements. 

Map